Saigo Takamori (1827-1877)

THE LAST SAMURAI

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"Once ours, always ours.
What's theirs, Keep it theirs."


Ideas & Beliefs

  • Opposed to Western influence and presence in Japan. Instead of Infrastructural advancements, He wished a more militaristically oriented system.
  • Wanted to preserve the Samurai as a class and supported the Samurai spirit in Japan.
  • Valued pride and sacrifice for the benefit of others, and especially for the country.
  • Valued the symbolism behind the sword that samurais carry.
  • To die and sacrifice one's life for Japan is an honor, not a tragedy.

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About Saigo Takamori

  • Born as the son of a lower ranking samurai in 1827, Kagoshima, Japan
  • Said to have all of the traditional samurai characteristics: bravery, respect, rectitude, honor, frugality, loyalty, and benevolence even towards the people who were in a lower status or rank.
  • Leader of the Satsuma clan and the Satsuma Rebellion
  • Chose to die as a true samurai committing seppuku (ritual suicide) on September 24,1877